Domestic violence professionals in Portuguese shelters: navigating challenges amidst the COVID-19 pandemic

This study investigates the experiences of professionals working in shelters in Portugal and their responses to domestic violence within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. We analysed qualitative data from 30 semi-structured interviews, mostly women working as directors or coordinators of those institutions. Through thematic analysis, we identified three major challenges: (1) Supporting Victims During the Pandemic: increased risk for victims and decrease in requests; providing psychological and social support; victims' safety strategies; managing mandatory quarantine periods; and being able to help victims reintegrate into society; (2) Managing Shelters Limitations: using alternative and new approaches; online schooling; low house capacity; and delays in long-term shelter accommodations; (3) Ensuring Staff Well-Being: conflicts and feelings of powerlessness; work-life balance; staff mental health; house and staff safety strategies; staff supervision strategies. This study has significant implications for both practice and policy, emphasising the importance of empirical research.